Return of the "J.D. Salinger" of cartoonists.

MisterBeale

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Sep 16, 2012
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The ever reclusive, retiring genius of Bill Watterson.


A few years back he was contacted a by contemporary funny paper cartoonist, Stephan Pastis. Stephan got no response.

Then in the paper Stephan ran this comic. . . .

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He emailed it to Bill not expecting anything from the "legendary recluse." But he got a reply! So started the saga of a short partnership that started the slow re-engagement of the genius that is Bill Watterson, back into the mainstream media culture.


These first two strips plan on introducing the mechanism by which Mr. Watterson will collaborate with Stephan on his comic.


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The intention here was for Stephen, well, in fact for the whole industry to pay homage to the acknowledged master. No one, aside from perhaps Schulz, is as revered by those in the industry. In the next three panels you will see where his work is, if you are a fan. . .


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Now, this all happened in 2014. If you are a fan, and you want to read the whole story of this collaboration, you can find it here:
Ever Wished That Calvin and Hobbes Creator Bill Watterson Would Return to the Comics Page? Well, He Just Did.
Ever Wished That Calvin and Hobbes Creator Bill Watterson Would Return to the Comics Page? Well, He Just Did.

What should we credit for moving Mr. Watterson toward putting out new stuff? Financial need?

Probably not. He lived a very frugal life, and invested wisely it was told by close confidants.


He had a close friend and colleague constantly push him, if not to do Calvin and Hobbes, then to continue to share his gift. I was a fan of Berkley Breathed's work as well back in the 80's.

This was from 2010.


As an April Fool's day joke, Berkley did one on Watterson, the way only he could get away with.

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"March 11 -- A big day for C&H fans: Bill Watterson and myself in Tuscany signing the franchise over to my "administration." Watterson's in great shape -- he's out of the Arizona facility, continent and looking forward to some well-earned financial security. You rock, Bill. --bb"
*
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*This was an April Fool's day Joke created by Breathed for his Facebook page at his friend Watterson's expense. Just another nudge out the door of retirement.
 

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